Tech: Let There Be Wind

According to analysis by the US energy Department, it is projected that wind power will be cheaper than electricity that is produced from natural gas within a decade. “Wind offers a power resource that’s already the most competitive option in many parts of the nation,” Lynn Orr, undersecretary for science and energy at the Energy Department, said on a conference call with reporters. “With continued commitment, wind can be the cheapest, cleanest power option in all 50 states by 2050.” When wind energy is increased to 35 percent of US electricity supplies, power prices will decline significantly, resulting in $400 billion in benefits related to the reduced emissions of greenhouse gases. Currently, wind energy provides about 4.5 percent of US power supplies.